It was a battle of two highly technical strikers at UFC Fight Night 36′s main event between Lyoto Machida and Gegard Mousasi. Their “Fight of the Night”-winning affair saw Machida land a wide range of quick, punishing karate strikes to stake his claim for a coveted UFC middleweight title shot.

For his efforts, Mousasi was able to land some good shots but just couldn’t beat Machida to the punch. He looked lackadaisical at times, and one has to wonder if facing a fighter like Machida was a bad decision coming off of ACL surgery. In any case, kudos to Mousasi for being a game fighter.

Machida may just be ready for a 185-pound title shot, but he apparently hurt his foot kicking Mousasi in the third round. More on that situation as it develops.

in the meantime, check out the Machida vs. Mousasi fight video highights, courtesy of FOX Sports:

http://lowkickmma.com/members/Moots/ moots

I seriously thought this was an awesome technical battle…lots of fans will hate on Machida for his style but if you don't at least appreciate this 5 round technical masterpiece then you don't appreciate the highest levels of MMA.

http://lowkickmma.com/members/SpaceJam/ SpaceJam

Yes it was very technical and great for true MMA fans but is was fairly lack luster and boring. I enjoyed it though so i'm not complaining just saying it how it is…